Dermatology ClinicAccutane (Isotretinoin) for Acne in Busan, Korea Who it suits, what the course involves, and how in-clinic treatments fit around it
Isotretinoin, best known as Accutane, is the most powerful acne medicine available, but it needs a doctor, regular checks and strict precautions. At JRYN Seomyeon, Dr. Kim assesses your acne first and explains whether isotretinoin, or another plan, makes sense for you .
What is Accutane and who is it for?
Accutane is a brand name for isotretinoin, an oral vitamin A derivative. It shrinks oil glands, reduces sebum and calms the inflammation that drives acne. Doctors usually consider it for severe nodular or cystic acne, acne that scars, or moderate acne that keeps coming back after proper treatment with creams and antibiotics. A course usually lasts several months, and many people see long-lasting clearance.
It is not a cosmetic treatment. Isotretinoin can cause serious birth defects, so pregnancy must be avoided during treatment and for a period afterwards , and blood tests are usually needed. At JRYN Seomyeon, the doctor decides suitability, dose and follow-up at consultation; the cost is confirmed there too.
Isotretinoin vs other acne treatments
Most people try other options first. Isotretinoin is for acne that needs more.
| Isotretinoin (Accutane) | Antibiotics and creams | In-clinic treatments | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Severe, cystic or scarring acne | Mild to moderate acne | Active breakouts, redness, marks |
| How it works | Shrinks oil glands, cuts sebum | Reduces bacteria and inflammation | Clears pores, calms redness |
| Time to results | Weeks to months | Weeks | Often visible after a few sessions |
| Monitoring | Blood tests and pregnancy prevention | Usually minimal | None |
| Common side effects | Dry lips, skin and eyes; sun sensitivity | Irritation, stomach upset | Brief redness |
| Relapse | Lower for many people | Common after stopping | Needs maintenance |
Examples of in-clinic care include extractions, Aqua Peel, acne laser and, later, scar treatments. The doctor decides what is suitable.
Who it suits
- You have deep, painful cysts or nodules
- Your acne is leaving scars
- Acne keeps coming back after antibiotics and creams
- Breakouts cover the face, chest or back
- You can commit to follow-up and blood tests for several months
Isotretinoin may not be right if...
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding
- You cannot use reliable contraception during the course, if relevant
- You have significant liver disease or very high blood lipids
- You have a history of severe depression (discuss carefully with the doctor)
- You are only in Korea for a few days with no doctor to follow you up at home
How an isotretinoin plan is decided
Acne assessment
Dr. Kim examines the type and severity of your acne, scarring and past treatments.
Health check
Pregnancy plans, medications, mood history and, usually, blood tests are discussed.
Plan and dose
If suitable, the dose, duration and follow-up are set. If not, another plan is suggested.
Follow-up
Regular reviews to check progress and side effects. Visitors need a plan for follow-up at home.
Reviewed by a JRYN doctor
Dr. Kim Ji-young
Director, JRYN Clinic Seomyeon · Acne and skin concerns
- Graduate of Inje University College of Medicine
- Former director, Centum Lin Clinic
This page is general information about Accutane and does not replace an in-person consultation. Results vary between people; suitability, dose and expected results are decided by a doctor after examining you.
Related acne care
Accutane FAQ
Still have questions? Message us on WhatsApp and we will answer in English.
Can I get Accutane in Korea as a visitor?
Isotretinoin is a prescription medicine, so a doctor must assess you in person first. At JRYN Seomyeon, Dr. Kim can tell you whether it suits your acne. Because the course takes months and needs monitoring, visitors should plan follow-up with a doctor at home.
How long does an Accutane course take?
Usually several months, commonly around four to six, though the dose and length vary. The doctor adjusts the plan based on your progress and side effects.
What are the common side effects?
Dry lips, dry skin and dry eyes are almost universal. Nosebleeds, sun sensitivity and muscle aches can occur. Less commonly it affects blood lipids or liver tests, which is why blood tests are done. Mood changes should be reported to the doctor straight away.
Why is pregnancy such a concern?
Isotretinoin can cause severe birth defects. Anyone who could become pregnant must not be pregnant when starting, must avoid pregnancy during treatment and for a period after stopping, and is usually asked to use reliable contraception.
Can I have laser or peels while on Accutane?
Skin is more fragile during isotretinoin and for a while afterwards. Some gentle treatments may be possible, but strong peels, waxing and aggressive resurfacing are usually postponed. The doctor decides timing case by case.
Does Accutane get rid of acne scars?
No. It stops new breakouts and therefore new scars, but existing scars need separate treatment, such as Potenza or fractional laser, once the skin has recovered.
How much does it cost at JRYN?
There is no fixed listed price, because it depends on the dose, length of treatment and any tests needed. The doctor explains the cost at consultation before you start.
Easy to find, easy to book.
Opening hours
| Mon · Tue · Fri | 10:30 – 20:00 |
| Wed · Thu | 10:30 – 19:00 |
| Saturday | 10:30 – 14:30 |
| Lunch (weekdays) | 13:00 – 14:30 |
| Sun & holidays | Closed |
Location
4F Samjung Tower, 672 Jungang-daero, Busanjin-gu, Busan
8 min walk from Seomyeon Station (Line 1 & 2) Exit 2, or 3 min from Seomyeon Mall Exit 16. In-building parking, first 30 minutes free.
Consult in English
Send your concern, photos and travel dates. We reply with suitable options and the price before you book.
